It doesn't matter how old your car is, a chipped or broken windshield can be a pain. Auto glass isn't exactly an affordable fix if you have to replace the entire thing. Unfortunately many people don't realize just how easy it is to replace it with an auto glass specialist. Most vehicle owners will get a chip or crack and - instead of getting it fixed - they let it go.
The problem with letting chips and cracks go on their own is that they will inevitably grow and spread. As they do so, growing out in spiderweb cracks and long talon-like cracks that stretch across the window, you wind up with your vision being impaired and a good chance of facing a fix-it ticket. Thankfully auto glass repair is simple and affordable when compared with complete window replacement.
When being repaired, the first step for the auto glass specialist is to evaluate the extent of the damage. If it is severe they may refer you to a shop to just have the glass swapped out for a used windshield without damage. Most chips or cracks can be fixed as long as they are less than 6 inches long. Damage of this nature can be tackled with some auto glass resin.
Keep in mind that modern glass is made of two layers with a rubber membrane between them. If only the top layer is cracked or damage then a repair is possible. If the damage breaches the membrane or goes all the way through the glass then you'll once again be referred to a shop for window replacement.
If your windshield can be repaired then the fix is relatively easy. The entire process usually only takes 30 minutes to an hour depending on the specialist and the shop. With a simple resin that is cured by sunlight, the specialist will inject the epoxy into the chip or crack with a special set of tools. This fills the damage and dries completely clear as it cures.
The repair blends into the surrounding auto glass and will almost completely hide the original damage while also reinforcing the windscreen. The resin is strong enough to keep the original crack and chip from spreading is a complete, permanent solution.
If you have a chip or a growing crack in your auto glass then the best time to get it taken care of is immediately. Every heavy gust of wind or debris that strikes your window can cause a large and sudden streak in a crack that forces it to spread. Tend to your windshield and get the crack taken care of immediately.
